Hey, everyone! How’s it going? Today I’m here to review the drama Misty, which aired on JTBC from February 2 to March 24, 2018. This gripping Korean thriller dives deep into the dark world of broadcast journalism, exploring themes of ambition, power, and the deadly consequences of unchecked desire for success.
Misty consists of 16 episodes with an average runtime of 70 minutes each, airing on JTBC’s Friday and Saturday 23:00 time slot. The series marks Kim Nam-joo’s small screen comeback after six years, alongside Ji Jin-hee in what became one of 2018’s most critically acclaimed dramas. Created by writer Je In and directed by Mo Wan-il, this psychological thriller examines the price of ambition in Korea’s cutthroat media landscape.
The story centers around a prime-time news anchor who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case, forcing her estranged lawyer husband to defend her. Set against the backdrop of Korea’s competitive broadcasting industry, Misty masterfully blends murder mystery with marital drama, creating a complex narrative that keeps viewers questioning every character’s motives. The series doesn’t shy away from exploring the moral gray areas of its characters, making it a sophisticated adult drama that tackles mature themes with unflinching honesty.
Go Hye-ran: The Ruthless News Anchor
Go Hye-ran is an ambitious anchorwoman for the popular news show, News 9. She is passionate about her job and doesn’t stop until she gets what she wants. Kim Nam-joo delivers a powerhouse performance as this complex character who embodies both admirable determination and dangerous ambition. Hye-ran’s unwavering pursuit of professional success has come at the cost of personal relationships, making her both sympathetic and morally questionable.
Her character represents the modern career woman who refuses to be pushed aside by younger competitors or industry sexism. However, as the murder investigation unfolds, we see how her single-minded focus on success has created enemies and compromised her moral compass in ways that come back to haunt her.
Kang Tae-wook: The Lawyer Wrestling with Love and Justice
Ji Jin-hee portrays Kang Tae-wook, a former prosecutor turned public defender who finds himself in the impossible position of defending his estranged wife. His character arc explores the conflict between professional duty and personal feelings, as he must navigate his complicated marriage while ensuring Hye-ran receives proper legal representation.
Tae-wook’s quiet strength and moral complexity make him a fascinating counterpoint to his wife’s more aggressive personality. As the case progresses, his loyalty is tested in ways that force him to confront uncomfortable truths about both his marriage and his wife’s character.
The Murder Mystery That Changes Everything
The series builds to shocking revelations as the investigation into a golf course murder deepens, implicating Hye-ran in ways that threaten to destroy everything she’s worked for. Without spoiling the intricate plot twists, the final episodes reveal how ambition, jealousy, and desperation can lead to deadly consequences. The murder case serves as a catalyst that exposes the dark underbelly of the broadcasting world and the personal costs of ruthless ambition.
The mystery elements are expertly crafted, with each episode revealing new layers of deception and hidden motives that keep viewers guessing until the very end.
Supporting Characters in the Media Circus
The ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances across the board, from rival journalists to network executives, each representing different aspects of the corrupt media landscape. Jeon Hye-jin stands out as a key supporting character whose motivations become increasingly important as the story unfolds. These characters create a rich tapestry of workplace politics and personal vendettas that enhance the central mystery.
The newsroom setting becomes a character itself, showcasing the high-pressure environment where careers are made and destroyed based on ratings and political connections.
Success on JTBC and Netflix
Misty achieved remarkable success, ending with its highest viewership ratings of 8.452 percent during the finale, breaking previous records for the time slot. The series earned a strong 7.8 rating on IMDb and gained international recognition when it became available on Netflix. The Friday-Saturday broadcast schedule built anticipation between episodes, while the 70-minute runtime allowed for deep character development and complex plot progression that satisfied both domestic and international audiences.
Perfect for Psychological Thriller Enthusiasts
If you love morally complex characters, intricate murder mysteries, and stories that explore the dark side of ambition, Misty is the perfect series to binge on Netflix. It’s a masterclass in psychological thriller storytelling that doesn’t provide easy answers or clear-cut heroes.
Why This Dark Media Thriller Demands Your Attention
Misty succeeds because it refuses to romanticize ambition or provide simple moral lessons. Instead, it presents a nuanced exploration of how far people will go for success and power, creating a viewing experience that’s both thrilling and deeply unsettling. It’s essential viewing for anyone interested in sophisticated adult dramas that tackle complex themes with intelligence and emotional depth.
Series Details
Number of Episodes: 16 (completed)
Platform: Netflix (originally aired on JTBC)
Release Year: 2018
Current IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Romance, Crime
Status: Completed series
Main Cast: Kim Nam-joo (Go Hye-ran), Ji Jin-hee (Kang Tae-wook), Jeon Hye-jin (Seo Eun-joo), Im Tae-kyung (Ha Myung-woo)
Main Antagonist: Ambition and moral corruption (thematic rather than individual character)